Study Myths

Five Myths About Studying

Many students have misconceptions about learning. Believing these myths results in developing bad habits that are counterproductive to academic success. Below are some common myths about learning in college.

Myth I Studying more or longer results in better grades.

It is not just how long you study that is important, but how well you study – think quality not quantity. Learn and use appropriate strategies to develop an efficient study system that works for you.

Myth II There’s one study system everyone can use.

Each student has to discover the best system for studying based on individual learning style, available time, reading and writing abilities and course load. Practice and trial and error are required to find the most strategic studying methods that work.

Myth III Knowing the course material is enough.

Many college-level courses are designed to go deeper than simple knowledge of material. They require you to apply the knowledge to new situations or to think critically using analysis and/or cause and effect to problem-solve.

Myth IV Cramming the night before will keep material fresh.

Regular review and study over a longer period of time results in actual learning and retention, which is preferable to relying on cramming the night before to do well on a test or exam.

Myth V Writing has very little impact on learning.

Research indicates that writing more, including making class and textbook reading notes and creating study/ review sheets, will improve your retention.

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